Page 99 of Royally Benevolent

I could use this as a way tohypeme going. Maybe I could go back and forth? Perhaps I could convert her? Either way, I wanted to show her my city. It could be fun for us, right? I smiled, thinking about taking her with me. I’d love to do that.

“I will send this email and then head out. Do you need anything before I do?”

“No, Stephen. Have a nice evening.”

He nodded.

The rest of the office left for the evening. I watched Stephen pack while wrapping up emails and waiting for Odette’s reply. Once Odetteconvinced her detail I was safe, they permitted me to pick her up at night. The office was quiet. I wanted to see her badly.

I heard the elevator buzz. Confused, I left my desk to see who was coming up. To my surprise, Odette walked towards me with her helmet in her hands, wearing the loveliest summer dress. As our eyes met, a grin broke across her face.

“Hi,” I said. “What are you doing here?”

“I ran off—sorta,” Odette said.

She wrapped her arms around my neck and slowly kissed me.

“You smell like sunshine,” I laughed.

Taking in her dimples and the freckles on her nose, I couldn’t have adored her more. She was so sweet.

“You rode here?”

“Ouais! I parked it in the new posh bike garage. Yay, transit funding! The day lockers are amazing.”

I snickered. “I am glad it is working out. What are you doing here?”

I asked again, as if in disbelief.

“I needed a ride—just for a bit. The weather was perfect. I packed my bag so I could stay over. I promise to be gone early.”

“Don’t.” I rubbed her arms. “I want you to leave when you want to tomorrow. We’re doing this. Theo is getting used to you being around. Please treat it like any other place. Promise.”

“And your mother isn’t bothered?”

“Mom loves having you around. She’s been so glad to have you help plan the birthday party. Promise.”

Odette smiled. “Okay. Well, I will head over when you head home. We can race back.”

“Given the traffic, I bet you beat me.”

“We should use that for an awareness campaign,” Odette said. “Show me your office. I’ve never been up here.”

“Your wish is my command,” I took her around. “Stephen’s office is over here if you ever need something.”

Odette nodded.

“And this is mine. It’s nothing exciting.”

Odette walked towards my windows and looked out.

“This is gorgeous, but don’t you feel perpetually on display?”

“Nah. There is privacy film on the glass.”

“I meant from the office.”

“Oh,” I laughed. “I have a way to manage that, too.”

---